Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has called for Nordic support—both financial and technical—in establishing a wildlife sanctuary for elephants, which are already extinct in the region.
She also said that cleaning up rivers across Bangladesh remains a top priority for the ministry, urging Nordic countries to contribute their expertise and cooperation to these critical areas.
The Adviser made these remarks during a meeting with the Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh, Nicolas Weeks; the Ambassador of Norway, Hakon Arald Gulbrandsen; and the Deputy Head of Mission of Denmark, Anders Karlsen, held on Tuesday at the ministry.
Highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions, Syeda Rizwana Hasan invited Nordic countries to share their experiences in tackling plastic pollution.
She stressed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s (MoEFCC) focus on youth engagement in managing plastic and noise pollution and sought Nordic support in facilitating awareness campaigns to strengthen these initiatives.
Dhaka seeks greater collaboration for peace, security in Asian Region
The Nordic Ambassadors reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation in biodiversity conservation, river pollution prevention, and renewable energy development.
Deputy Head of Mission Anders Karlsen expressed Denmark’s interest in a $1.2 billion investment for establishing an offshore wind farm in Cox’s Bazar, which would generate 500 MW of electricity.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Ambassador Hakon Arald Gulbrandsen shared Norway’s readiness to support the implementation of a “Marine Litter Prevention Project” aimed at promoting sustainable plastic use and reducing marine litter across Bangladesh.
The Environment Adviser accepted an invitation to attend the Nordic Day celebration on February 6, 2024 as the Chief Guest, underscoring the growing partnership between Bangladesh and the Nordic countries in addressing environmental challenges.
The Environment Secretary, Water Resources Secretary, and high officials from the Ministry and Embassies were present on the occasion.